GOALS

The purpose of this risk score is to determine the patient’s risk for developing a diabetic foot ulcer.

This FORM  can be used to examine your patient’s foot.

In very low risk patients – annual testing is recommended to reassess the patient’s risk.

In patients with low-very high risk increased frequency of testing is recommended. 

The purpose of testing is to identify and treat reversible conditions placing the patient at increased risk of foot ulceration such as – ingrown toenails, fungal infection, dry skin, abundant calluses.

Patient education is a pivotal aspect of the exam.

Educating the patient, family and healthcare professionals
  • Determine if the person is able to perform a foot inspection. If not, discuss who can assist the person in this task.
  • Explain the need to perform daily foot inspection of the entire surface of both feet, including areas between the toes
  • Ensure the patient knows how to notify the appropriate healthcare professional if measured foot temperature is perceptibly increased, or if a blister, cut, scratch or ulcer has developed
Review the following with the patient
  • Avoid walking barefoot, in socks without footwear, or in thin-soled slippers, whether at home or outside
  • Do not wear shoes that are too tight, have rough edges or uneven seams
  • Visually inspect and manually feel inside all shoes before you put them on
  • Wear socks/stocking without seams, and change socks daily
  • Wash feet daily (with water temperature always below 37°C), and dry them carefully, especially between the toes
  • Do not use any kind of heater or a hot-water bottle to warm feet
  • Do not use chemical agents or plasters to remove corns and calluses
  • Use emollients to lubricate dry skin, but not between the toes
  • Cut toenails straight across
  • Have your feet examined regularly by a healthcare professional